Wycker Waterpoort (Wycker Watergate), Maastricht

The Wycker Watergate, also known as Waterpoortje, is a medieval water gate located in the Wyck district of Maastricht. Positioned on the Maaskade (Stenenwal) at the junction of Waterpoort Street and the River Maas, this historical structure has been a national monument since 1966.

Built as part of the Wycker city wall in 1318, the water gate likely dates to the 14th century, providing access to an unloading quay. First mentioned in a 1377 tax book as "magnam portam que ducit ad Mosam" (the large gate to the Meuse), it was renamed Symon Mertynsport by 1399-1400 after timber merchant Simon Mertens. Later, it was known as Wycker Kolenpoort in the 16th century and Batpoort in the 17th, though the latter name applied to multiple gates.

The structure consists of a thick wall made of coal sandstone, featuring a round-arched gate opening approximately 3.5 meters wide. In 1897, the gate was slightly set back relative to the quay wall, possibly restoring its original positioning. The connection to the quay was reinforced by two tower-like extensions designed by architect Pierre Cuypers. However, these extensions, which feature battlements, are largely decorative and not historically referenced. A wall walk is present above the gate on the city side, though it remains inaccessible.

Since 2007, a red stone staircase in the gate opening leads to a viewing platform near the water, surrounded by Maas boulders for protection. South of the gate, a bluestone staircase is embedded in the quay wall, its origin unknown. Further south, near the Maaspunt Tower, a now-bricked-up water gate may have served the Clermont & Chinay pottery factory (1851) for river transport.

Today, the Wycker Watergate stands as a testament to Maastricht’s medieval fortifications, preserving its historical significance while offering modern visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.